Rest in peace my dear friend

This week, I dedicate my note to a close friend who recently passed away.

We might have only known each other for about six years, but in reality it felt like much longer because we got on so well.

Dear friend, I can still remember the day I met you. I was so happy because you were introduced to me by another close friend, someone who had been longing for companionship and there you were … exactly what she needed.

I clearly remember the conversations we had. How we discussed the future and made fun of our significant others. I can still hear you laugh. Thank you for always laughing at my sometimes ridiculous jokes.

The times we spent together were always good and the not-so-good-times were just made so much better because you were there to lighten the mood with one of your quirky pick-up lines.

You shared my love of cats and always treated the animals around you like human beings. Your compassion towards every living being was without a doubt one of your greatest qualities.

After learning of your health struggles, we knew that someday you might lose your battle, yet we also knew about your incredible will to live.

We dreaded thinking of ever saying goodbye. But that time had come and God decided that he needed you sooner rather than later, and we are truly at a loss for words.

We miss you so much already and hope that wherever you are, you know that your legacy lives on. You have no more pain.

I end my note with one of your most famous phrases; a phrase that is synonymous with your name; a phrase that sums up the wonderful and loving person you were … “Awe, ma’se kinners”.

Rest in peace John Hartman, my dearest friend. We will honour your life by living ours to the fullest … until we meet again.